4th of July for the Dogs

The bang of fireworks, the heat, the barbecue: while there’s plenty to do on the 4th of July holiday in Reston and Herndon, it’s not a dog-friendly time of year. The commotion, stress, heat and parties can be too much for our pets. According to the ASPCA, one in five dogs go missing due running from a loud noise; including fireworks. They’ve developed an important mobile phone app that can help you be prepared in the event of an emergency.

Don’t let your dog become a statistic. Keep him indoors, and walk on a close leash for his relief breaks. Please don’t leave your dog unattended in a yard. If you’re having guests, let them know not to feed him “people” food. And if you’re gathering outside, don’t let your dog become overheated, and keep him on a leash.

Always make sure your pet has current ID, or a microchip, to improve the odds of reuniting.

Keep the radio and TV on to help cover outdoor noise. And once dusk falls, it might be a good idea to move your pets to a quiet, back bedroom where they will feel safe. Play some indoor games, with treats as rewards. Nothing is distracting as a good treat!

If you need to be away from home, our overnight staff will be happy to stay with your pets, and keep them safe, happy and entertained. Our holidays book months in advance, so it’s never to early to get on the schedule for major holidays!

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Kim Waite-Williams
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Testimonials

Thank you again! Really appreciate you taking so much time to talk with me tonight – you’re a life saver!!!

Jessica R.Herndon

Karla is pretty spectacular…Violet was very happy, safe, splendid when we arrived home. Karla was contentious enough to call my husband and ensure we arrived home. Because our pup is almost 16, this was outstanding. She is lovely:)

Antonella O.Herndon

Karla rocks! The walks are going well, and I am pleased with Karla’s care for Rocky and Cleo, as well as her expertise in dog training and behavior. I’m so glad we found you and Karla!

Meg S.Herndon

We couldn’t make a trip like this if we didn’t have caring and reliable folks like yourselves to keep our pets safe and happy!

Toni & Joe J.Herndon

Dana is wonderful! My dog, Kachina, sits by her window, waiting patiently for Dana’s car to drive up every Tuesday and Thursday. She squeals with delight as she charges down the stairs to greet her. I thank Dana for giving my little girl a time to have a “Girl’s Day” when they can stroll along smelling all the flowers…………….

Jan A., Reston

We are grateful we went with the Pet Elf. You all are fantastic.

Hilary C.Vienna

You have a real gem in Jennifer. They were well fed, well cared for, very happy and relaxed when we got home last night. She was communicative during our time away and obviously cared very much for the pups. We truly appreciated her attentiveness.

Kathy H.Reston

Very happy with the service provided by Karen and The Pet Elf! Thanks!

Stella M.Reston

Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness and kindness when taking care of my kids. After my first phone call to you, I felt confident that they were in good, caring hands and I was able to stop worrying and enjoy my vacation. When I got home, they were all so calm and relaxed. You’re wonderful!

Deb W.Herndon

I wanted to let you know what a special sitter Karen is and what a great job she did staying with my cats for 10 days. We came home to very happy pets and the house was immaculate. I will definitely use Karen again. Thanks so much.